Vidyasagar Setu is also known as Welcome Bridge and as the Second Hooghly Bridge, is a well-known bridge in Kolkata that spans the Hooghly River. It’s named after a famous social reformer, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. The bridge connects Kolkata’s city center with Howrah’s industrial area and is an important transportation route.
History
The idea for the bridge was conceived in the 1970s to reduce traffic on the old Howrah Bridge. Construction began in 1979 and took many years to complete due to funding and technical issues. The bridge was finally opened in 1992.
Location
The bridge is located near Prinsep Ghat and Fort William, and it’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus. It’s about 5 km from Kolkata’s city center and 4 km from Howrah Railway Station.
Facilities
There are automated toll booths on both ends of the bridge. You can view the bridge from nearby pedestrian pathways. The bridge is beautifully lit up at night. There are food stalls, boating, and restrooms available at Prinsep Ghat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the bridge is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant. The bridge looks stunning when lit up at night, so it’s a great time for photography.
Timings
The bridge is open 24/7 for vehicular traffic. You can visit the nearby areas like Prinsep Ghat from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Tips
Try to avoid peak hours (8:00 AM-11:00 AM, 4:00 PM-8:00 PM) to avoid congestion. Don’t try to walk on the bridge; instead, view it from nearby areas or take a boat ride. The approach roads are wheelchair-friendly, but the ghats have uneven steps.
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